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But now it is difficult to see how, at least in the short-term, Martinez can keep Naismith out of his plans. When he arrived on Merseyside three years ago, Naismith struggled under David Moyes. But he has been a star for Martinez.

Never more so than here. The last Everton player to score a hat-trick against Chelsea was Dixie Dean in 1931.

Naismith ended the wait in glorious fashion, first with a glancing header, then a left-foot drive before a cool right-footed finish sparked delirium on the terraces.

'It would have been all too easy for Naisy to be unhappy,' said Martinez. 'It was a real joy to see him do that; he gave us a real good example. His performance typified the effort and character we have at Everton.'

Naismith receives a hug from defender John Stones, who almost joined Chelsea during the summer's window